12-month prescriptions
The Government has announced a new initiative to extend the maximum prescription length from 3 months to 12 months. This change came into effect on 1 February 2026.
College position statement and resources
Members can use the College's twelve-month prescribing in general practice position statement as guidance. The position statement outlines how to apply these new changes safely and effectively in practice.
Updates
Important updates for members will be published below and shared in ePulse.
-
Contact information for reporting issues and concerns
Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora has asked that any sector issues, concerns or challenges regarding the 12-month prescription settings be directed to: Sector Operations on 0800 855 066 (option 3) or contactcentre@health.govt.nz for recording and monitoring.
-
Update from PSNZ - January 2026
This change to prescribing lengths also means that all prescriptions are now valid for up to 12 months.
To mitigate against any unintended consequences of this change, the Pharmaceutical Society of New Zealand (PSNZ) has recommended that prescribers add the period of supply (2/12, 6/12 etc). In doing so, this will also serve to reduce the number of phone calls to prescribers from pharmacists to clarify prescription information.
PSNZ hopes that Medtech and other prescribing systems will update their programme so the period of supply will always show on the prescription.
-
Update to Foundation Standard - Indicator 9.1
This change has implications for repeat prescribing practices and patient safety. The Quality Programmes team has updated the Foundation Standard guidance for Repeat Prescribing (criteria 9.1) to reflect this change. The updated guidance emphasises clinical judgement, patient safety and equity. We encourage all prescribers and their teams to familiarise themselves with the updated guidance and review and update the practice’s repeat prescribing policy and procedures to ensure prescribing practices remain safe, equitable, and patient-centred.
College submissions
You can view the College's submissions in relation to 12-month prescriptions below.
The College did not support the proposed amendment to increase the period of supply limit (prescribing duration) from three to 12 months. The College supported a six-month prescribing duration as a safer and more appropriate option.
3 to 12 months
College submission on proposal to increase the period of supply limit from 3 to 12 months.
View submission
Special Authority
College submission on proposed changes to Special Authority renewal requirements.
View submission